Coaches’, Athletes’, and Athletic trainers’ Impressions of the Therapeutic Effects of Tart Cherry Juice

The purpose of this study was to determine perceptions of the effectiveness of tart cherry supplements among sport and strength and conditioning coaches, athletes, and athletic trainers. Our qualitative research study was conducted online by receiving responses to a questionnaire from Division I, II, and III sports coaches (N=50), strength and conditioning coaches (N=4), athletes (N=25), and athletic trainers (N=21) across the state of Virginia. We identified 5 themes related to tart cherry juice and recovery from athletic activity. The use of tart cherry supplementation is not widespread, but many athletes would use it and coaches would recommend it if evidence existed and the cost was not a barrier. Most participants used or recommended using tart cherry supplementation because of a perception that it assists in recovery after practices and in between games. Stakeholders provided many alternatives to using tart cherry supplementation. Education was a common factor in facilitating muscle recovery, lowering pain and inflammation levels, and improving sleep quality. The use of tart cherry supplementation was not widespread, some participants described using it or recommended using it for performance enhancement. If tart cherry supplementation is advised, providing evidence of effectiveness and financial support for acquiring it is warranted. Key Words: Recovery, inflammation, supplemen